Bronchiectasis in children: what parents should know

A child may have a wet or mucus-producing cough that lingers, noisy breathing, tiredness, or repeated episodes of chest infection. Symptoms can vary, and a cough alone does not establish the diagnosis. A clinician considers the pattern, examination findings and the child's history. A paediatric respiratory team may use a chest X-ray and breathing tests such as spirometry when the child is able to follow the instructions.

Mucus clearance matters because retained mucus can irritate airways and support infection. Bronchiectasis may affect one area or several parts of the lungs, so the care plan is tailored to the child.

Arrange a medical review for a persistent wet cough, repeated chest infections, or reduced stamina. Keep a simple record of cough changes, fever, breathing effort, phlegm and prescribed medicines. The team may teach airway-clearance exercises, review inhalers if relevant, and treat flare-ups when indicated. Do not start antibiotics, herbal products or leftover medicines without advice.

Keep smoke and vaping aerosol away from the child, encourage fluids when suitable, and follow the personalised follow-up plan. Learn more about [Bronchiectasis](/conditions/bronchiectasis/), [Cough](/symptoms/cough/) and [Coughing Up Phlegm](/symptoms/coughing-up-phlegm/).

Seek urgent help if the child is struggling to breathe, has blue or grey lips, is unusually difficult to wake, or cannot drink because of breathlessness. Prompt medical assessment is also appropriate for coughing blood, a rapidly worsening cough, or fever with a clear decline in breathing or energy.

Ask what findings support bronchiectasis, whether imaging or spirometry is appropriate, how to perform airway clearance, and which changes should trigger same-day advice.